Singapore Holidays

Singapore Travel Guide

Beguiling Singapore is a modern city-state embracing economic progress against the backdrop of age-old tradition. Many business people and holidaymakers travel to Singapore on their way to the Far East, or as a stop-off between Australia and Europe, and are eager to see and experience this legendary hi-tech Asian city, which combines traditional enclaves with the towering steel and cement of a cosmopolitan international power-house. The customs that underpin community life emerge out of a cultural mix that includes predominantly Chinese, Indian and Malay ethnic groups. Singapore is an island off the southern tip of Malaysia, linked to it by a causeway. It evolved from a sleepy fishing village in the early 1900s to become one of Asia's economic tigers. Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles landed on Singapore's northern bank in 1819 and felt that its location made it ideal as a trading station. From here Singapore's landscape was transformed by British colonial rule, Japanese occupation, Communist insurrection and finally, independence. Since becoming a republic in 1965 the island has experienced increased prosperity and exponential economic growth. Shimmering skyscrapers tower above the slick financial districts and elegant colonial buildings preserve a lingering old-world charm. Singapore's full calendar of events showcases a spectrum of cultural celebrations and shopping activities. The early summer months bustle in anticipation of the Singapore Sale - a time when tourists can cash in on the competitive prices of electronic equipment, jewellery and other merchandise. The business activity thrives amid the celebration of Chinese, Hindu and Muslim festivals that punctuate the year with their colourful representations. These include the Chinese New Year, Ramadan, Hari Raya Puasa, Vesak Day, the Dragon Boat Festival, Festival of the Hungry Ghosts and Thaipusam. The core of downtown Singapore is formed by the Colonial District, embellished by cathedrals and cricket lawns. The notable sites of the area include the Empress Place Building and the luxurious Raffles Hotel. Although most of old Singapore has been demolished to make way for the modern city, many major landmarks within the Colonial district have been preserved. The surrounding ethnic enclaves of Little India, Chinatown and the Arab Quarter also provide glimpses into the traditions that have sustained their respective communities through the centuries.

Getting Around

As a result of government-induced deterrents towards drivers to combat traffic congestion and air pollution, hiring a car is very expensive in SIngapore. However, getting around the city is easy without a car due to efficient, modern and inexpensive public transport. An extensive bus network and the reliable MRT train subway system are both cheap and user-friendly and service all parts of Singapore. Electronic ez-link passes cover trains and buses and save carrying loose change for fares as well as giving a slight discount on standard ticket prices. There is also a Tourist Day Ticket that is valid for 12 rides of any length. The city also has thousands of metered taxis, which are safe, air-conditioned and surprisingly affordable, driven by helpful and honest drivers. The only drawback is the long taxi queues during rush hour. There are services offered to travellers that include the Singapore Explorer shuttles, which stop at most tourist destinations, and the SIA Hop-on bus, which offers passes for unlimited rides for a day and is free for visitors who travelled to Singapore on Singapore Airlines. Many of the tourist attractions are situated close together and walking is a safe and pleasant option if you can handle the heat.

Customs

Singapore is a fairly diverse society and has been moulded by
its immigrant population, primarily Malay, Chinese and Indian,
along with the large expat community. The city is incredibly
efficient and the citizens very law-abiding - there are fines
issued for just about any offence in Singapore, including S$500 for
smoking in public places, S$50 for jaywalking, S$1,000 for
littering and S$500 for eating, drinking or chewing gum on the MRT.
There are even fines for not flushing public toilets so it goes
without saying that getting involved in illegal drugs is not
advisable; trafficking carries a maximum penalty of death. Chinese
Singaporeans have three names, the first of which is their surname,
or family name. As a result visitors should be prepared for hotels
mistakenly reserving rooms under their first names. For clarity
surnames may be underlined.

Passport/Visa

Travellers should hold confirmed documents and tickets for
onward or return travel and enough funds to cover their stay. Male
travellers with long hair are advised to tie their hair back on
arrival. Women who are six months pregnant or more may be refused
entry. All nationals, regardless of visa requirements, may be
issued with a Social Visitor's Pass on arrival allowing for a stay
of 14 or 30 days provided their visit is for touristic or business
purposes. Extensions are possible for S$40, but the initial Pass is
free. Passports must be valid for at least six months from date of
arrival. It is highly recommended that passports have at least six
months validity remaining after your intended date of departure
from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply
different rules to those stated by travel agents and official
sources.